it almost does

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it almost does" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that nearly meets a certain expectation or standard but falls short. Example: "The solution is effective, but it almost does what we need it to do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

It almost does not matter here.

The New York Times

It almost does not matter at this point.

The Washington Post

The slightest disruption can spoil a play — and here, with Jones obstructing Keller, it almost does.

The New York Times - Sports

It almost does not matter if Trump launches a new trade war.

The Washington Post

In fact, given Jordan's history of almost needing to win, it almost does not make sense.

The New York Times - Sports

French officials say it almost does not matter whether a resolution passes that suits the Americans or the French.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

It almost did.

The New York Times - Sports

It almost didn't.

The Washington Post

And it almost did.

The New York Times

It almost did again.

The New York Times - Arts

It almost didn't happen at all.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it almost does" to create a sense of anticipation or near-miss, highlighting the potential or possibility that something could have happened or been achieved.

Common error

Avoid using "it almost does" when the actual result is significantly different from the implied outcome, as this can mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it almost does" functions as a qualifier, indicating that something is close to fulfilling a certain condition or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it almost does" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to convey a near-miss or close approximation. According to Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts and functions as a qualifier, highlighting potential while acknowledging the lack of complete fulfillment. While "it almost does" maintains a neutral tone, it is important to avoid overstating the implication when using it. Alternatives such as "it nearly succeeds" or "it comes close" can be considered for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it comes close

A more concise way to express that something nearly reaches a certain point.

it nearly succeeds

Emphasizes the near success of an action or event.

it narrowly succeeds

Indicates success by a small margin.

it falls just short

Focuses on the lack of complete achievement.

it practically achieves it

Highlights the practical attainment of a goal, stopping just short of full achievement.

it virtually accomplishes it

Implies a very close approximation to accomplishing something.

it barely manages

Highlights a minimal level of success.

it borders on success

Suggests proximity to a successful outcome.

it is on the verge of doing so

Expresses that something is very close to happening or being achieved.

it scrapes through

Indicates a very narrow escape or success.

FAQs

How can I use "it almost does" in a sentence?

Use "it almost does" to describe situations where something nearly happens or is nearly true, but ultimately falls short. For example, "The cake was delicious, but "it almost does" taste like chocolate".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "it almost does"?

Alternatives include "it nearly succeeds", "it comes close", or "it falls just short", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it almost does"?

Yes, "it almost does" is grammatically correct. The adverb "almost" correctly modifies the verb "does", indicating a near or partial action.

In what contexts is "it almost does" most appropriately used?

"It almost does" is suitable in many contexts, particularly when discussing plans, attempts, or qualities that are near to being realized. It's useful in both informal and neutral registers.